FIAT Panda receives zero stars in Euro NCAP crash tests

It is one of only two cars in EuroNCAP’s history to be awarded zero stars; the other was the FIAT Punto in 2017.

“It is truly disappointing to see a brand-new car being put on sale in 2018 with no autonomous braking system and no lane assistance,” said Euro NCAP Secretary General Michiel van Ratingen. “It is high time we saw a product from the FIAT-Chrysler group offering safety to rival its competitors.”

The vehicle’s only safety feature to score points in Euro NCAP’s Safety Assist box was its seatbelt reminder. The safety of children seated in the rear was of specific concern, with the vehicle’s Child Occupant Protection score of 16% falling significantly short of the industry average.

“Most troubling is that the FIAT Panda is seen as a good choice for young drivers and fledgling families,” commented Matthew Avery, Director of Research, Thatcham Research. “But the only safety technology fitted were seatbelt reminders and the rear system failed to meet requirements, so wasn’t even rated. Where budgets are tight, consider a safer small car second-hand, like the five-star SEAT Ibiza.

Another poor performer in Euro NCAP’s latest tests was the new Jeep Wrangler, which achieved just a one-star rating and a 50% Adult Occupant Protection score.